Is the heat making you feel like a cookie in an oven? You might feel this way if your home AC isn’t doing a good job. One of the most common problems of AC is linked to refrigerant leakage. If your HVAC unit is leaking coolant, it can cause a higher electric bill, increase humidity, and many other problems. 

Here are the warning signs if your AC is leaking refrigerant. 

Warning signs that your AC is leaking refrigerant

Higher Electric Bill

When your HVAC unit has a refrigerant leakage, your AC works harder than normal to keep the environment cool. This means your AC might use more electricity; thus, affecting your power bill. Compare your bill from the same time of the last year to find out whether your electric bill is abnormally high. You can also give us a call for AC repair in Cypress, TX if you’re a new homeowner. We will evaluate your AC’s condition and perform necessary repairs to make it good as new.  

Increased Home Humidity

Your AC should dehumidify your home in around 15 minutes if it’s working properly. However, if the air constantly feels sticky, know that it might be due to the coolant leakage.

AC Leaking Water

When you turn off your AC, the ice melts over time. This water needs to go somewhere. So it drips on the floor around your HVAC unit.

AC is Making Hissing Sounds

Your refrigerant might leak if there’s a crack or hole in the coils. When this occurs, your AC might make a hissing sound.

Bubbles in the Evaporator Coils

If your AC is leaking coolant, you might see tiny beads on your evaporator coils. The condensation on your coils can bead up when a refrigerant is leaking. If your tech notices beading on the evaporator coil, know that it’s a sign that something is wrong. Get it repaired before these leaks get worse. After all, inhaling refrigerants is bad for your health and the environment.

What Causes Refrigerant Leaks?

Know that you know the warning signs; let’s discuss what causes refrigerant leaks.

 

Age of the System

The coils can wear down and develop cracks and holes as your AC gets older. The connections and joints are most vulnerable to damage over time.  

Vibrations

When your AC is running, it vibrates a bit. These vibrations can separate the joints in your coils over time. Even just a tiny gap can cause leakages.  

Landscaping

Another reason that can lead to refrigerant leaks is copper line damage. Copper lines go from your outdoor unit to the inside of your house. Since they’re outside, you never know what can damage them.  

Contaminants

If you don’t keep up with routine maintenance for your HVAC unit, dust, and other pollutants can get into your coils. This can lead to corrosion and worsening cracks and holes in the coils.

Prevent Refrigerant Leaks

You can prevent refrigerant leaks from happening. All you have to do is keep up with routine AC maintenance twice a year. You can hire us for routine cleaning and inspection to ensure everything is running properly.